What was the Renaissance and why was it significant?

The Renaissance is a period in European history that saw a renewed interest in the classics of Ancient Greece and Rome. It started in Florence, Italy and took place between the 14th and 16th Century. The period saw a flourishing of the arts and sciences and a was a unique period of humanism and secularism. It was a significant period because it broadened the scope of human potential. In other words, limits that existed in people's own imaginations were removed. People started to believe they could achieve anything which led to unparalleled scientific achievement. The Renaissance inspired both the Enlightenment and the Scientific Revolution. It also was an inspiration for the age of discovery which led to the "discovery" and colonization of the New World. These are significant examples of the many important developments that were spawned by the Renaissance in Europe.